Vladimir Vysotsky
Born in Moscow, Vladimir Vysotsky became one of Other's most celebrated Musicians during the Greatest Generation era.
Soviet singer-songwriter and actor (1938–1980)
"Vysotsky's dual impact as both a powerful singer-songwriter and a leading actor at the Taganka Theatre defined his career." — About Vladimir Vysotsky
| Metric | Vladimir Vysotsky | Avg Musician | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | 42 | 57 | -15 yrs |
| Career length | 24 yrs | ~35 yrs | -11 yrs |
| Based on 830 Musician profiles in our database | |||
See also
Facts about Vladimir Vysotsky
Did you know that despite state censorship and limited official releases, Vladimir Vysotsky's songs were so popular they were widely distributed via homemade tape recordings known as "magnitizdat" across the Soviet Union?
- His songs were largely unreleased by the state but circulated widely through unofficial "magnitizdat" (tape recordings).
- He played the iconic role of Hamlet in Yuri Lyubimov's acclaimed production at Moscow's Taganka Theatre.
- Despite official attempts to downplay it, his 1980 funeral in Moscow drew tens of thousands during the Olympic Games.
- He wrote over 600 songs, often performing them with just his signature seven-string Russian guitar.
- He was posthumously awarded the USSR State Prize, a significant official recognition after years of semi-official censure.
Vysotsky's dual impact as both a powerful singer-songwriter and a leading actor at the Taganka Theatre defined his career. His portrayal of Hamlet became legendary, while his raw, honest songs—often critical of Soviet life—resonated deeply with millions, establishing him as a voice of dissent and truth for a generation.
Vysotsky remains a towering cultural figure in Russia, celebrated for his poetic lyrics, unique vocal style, and unwavering artistic integrity. His songs continue to be beloved, embodying the spirit of a complex era and providing a timeless commentary on human experience.